This was done, he said, to save my character, and preserve his own name unspotted in the eyes of others, however tarnished it might be in his own.

I willingly consented to the arrangement; and thus for a brief space I became tranquil, if not happy.
But another and severer trial awaited me." "Alas, madam!" exclaimed Alizon, sympathisingly.
"My cup of sorrow, I thought, was full," pursued Mistress Nutter; "but the drop was wanting to make it overflow.

It came soon enough.

Amidst my griefs I expected to be a mother, and with that thought how many fond and cheering anticipations mingled! In my child I hoped to find a balm for my woes: in its smiles and innocent endearments a compensation for the harshness and injustice I had experienced.

How little did I foresee that it was to be a new instrument of torture to me; and that I should be cruelly robbed of the only blessing ever vouchsafed me!" "Did the child die, madam ?" asked Alizon.
"You shall hear," replied Mistress Nutter.